Related Articles

From the tropics of Hawaii to the East Coast's Outer Banks, the United States is filled with secluded beaches that remain untouched by commercial development. Hidden by forests, cliffs and miles of untouched land, many of these beaches are difficult to access. Their remote locations protect them from large crowds of tourists but offer serenity to the adventurous few who journey to see their natural splendor.

Kaupoa Beach, Hawaii

With no building taller than a coconut tree and no traffic lights, Hawaii's least-populated island remains an unspoiled beauty. The island of Molokai features numerous secluded beaches, including Kaupoa Beach. Located on the west side of the 38-mile-long island, the beach consists of white sand and dark lava rock. When the water is calm, the ocean is ideal for swimmers and snorkelers. When the tide is high, the water can be dangerous since there is a steep, sandy drop-off close to the shore. A trip to this beach, which is divided into two crescent-shaped sections, is a must for those in search of a quiet place to explore.

Enderts Beach, California

Hidden behind a forest with 350-foot-tall evergreen trees, Enderts Beach is the Redwood National Forest's hidden treasure. When the tide is low, the beach is covered in rocky tide pools filled with sea creatures. A 500-foot overlook off Enderts Beach Trail provides spectacular views of the forest and ocean, and is an excellent spot for whale-watching and picnicking.

Dry Tortugas, Florida

The Dry Tortugas National Park, located 70 miles west of Key West, is accessible only by boat or seaplane. The seven small islands that make up this park are a bird and marine life sanctuary. Aside from the abandoned Fort Jefferson and a lighthouse built in the 1800s, few man-made structures can be found on the islands. Many of those who visit the park do so to go snorkeling in the crystal clear waters. The small islands' white sandy beaches give you a sense of isolation in the vast Gulf of Mexico.

Kaihalulu Beach, Hawaii

Kaihalulu Beach, also known as the Red Sand Beach, is a small area that features hanging cliffs, a blue lagoon and volcanic rocks. If you want to see the famous maroon sands, you must trek through hazardous ground to reach the secluded beach. Visitors must hike on a rocky trail along hanging cliffs, a part of which has been blocked off by a landslide. But the view is worth it for the adventurous few: The lagoon at Kaihalulu Beach is perfect for swimming, which Fodor's compares to "floating in a giant natural bathtub."

Carova Beach, North Carolina

Located on the Outer Banks, Carova Beach is home to feral horses that run wild along the Atlantic shore. There are no paved roads leading to the beach, making it accessible only by boat or four-wheel-drive. While there are beach homes lining the secluded shore, the region remains largely undeveloped, with no commercial businesses in the area. Visitors who lack the transportation needed to visit Carova Beach can rent vehicles or go on guided tours leaving from the nearby city of Corolla.